Topic: 2025 – Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: Ecuador
Delegate Name: Ailani Wilson
Committee: Special Political and Decolonization Committee
Topic: Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: The Republic of Ecuador
School: Forest Hills Central High School
The Republic of Ecuador sees the fight between authoritarianism and democracy playing out worldwide, and it is a serious threat, not just to stability, but to human rights and progress, too. Authoritarian governments are growing every year, and global freedom has declined for the 19th consecutive year in 2024, and 60 countries reported a decline in civil liberties. In Ecuador, we call ourselves a constitutional presidential democracy. Our democracy is still young and has had its difficulties as we strive for a well-functioning government system. Institutions stumble, and politics get messy. Some international groups call us a “flawed democracy”, but we’ve got the basics down. We are not taking democracy for granted, and we are determined not to slip backwards.
Our elections are open and competitive, and people are able to speak up without fear, and no one, even the president, gets to rule unchecked. This is what’s seen with developing democracies, not authoritarianism. Our laws back up democracy, but we still need to work on things. We need to fight corruption, boost our courts, and let the press have the freedom it deserves. Democracy is not just about showing up to vote every couple of years, but it’s about real institutions and making sure everyone’s voice counts, not just the loudest or most powerful.
We’re pushing for more help for new democracies like ours. The most effective measures include strengthening independent electoral commissions, expanding meaningful civic education, and enforcing campaign finance regulations that prevent abuse. Expanding meaningful civic education will allow the younger citizens to understand how democracy works and why it is important. We also need to support the protection of journalists and civil society organizations so they can operate freely and safely. With the protection of journalists and civil society organizations, they are able to keep leaders accountable and criticize power without the fear of repercussions. International monitoring and technical assistance are also essential for ensuring an honest election.
For countries stuck in “electoral autocracies”, where elections happen but nothing ever changes, Ecuador backs slow, peaceful reform. Expanding political participation, enforcing term limits, having fair courts, and ensuring a free and independent press are key steps toward meaningful democratization. With the expansion of political participation, especially from the youth, women, and marginalized groups, we will make sure that all voices are heard and not just from the privileged. This will allow for a fairer political system that accounts for the needs of the entire population. Democracy doesn’t come from sudden disruption, but through steady improvements in accountability and transparency. Without these foundations, authoritarianism fills the gaps, and elections lose their purpose entirely.
The Republic of Ecuador believes that the international community must actively support democratic governance. This requires cooperation, stronger institutions, and a firm commitment to civil rights. Independent institutions and an informed public remain the best way against the return to authoritarianism. Ecuador stands ready to work with all states seeking practical, lasting solutions that make democracies stronger, politics calmer, and prioritize human rights.
Works cited
https://freedomhouse.org/article/new-report-amid-unprecedented-wave-elections-political-violence-and-armed-conflict-fueled?utm_source
https://ukininkopatarejas.lt/data/ckfinder/files/TheEconomist%20Democracy%20Index%202024.pdf?utm_source
https://freedomhouse.org/report/report-sub-page/2025/regional-trends-and-threats-freedom?utm_source
https://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/global-state-democracy-2024-strengthening-legitimacy-elections?utm_source
https://bti-project.org/en/reports/global-report?utm_source
https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/open-government-for-stronger-democracies_5478db5b-en.html?utm_source
